Oregon mirrors those statistics. Data from the ABA’s “Standard 509 Information Reports” reveals that applications and admissions to Oregon law schools dropped by 50% or more in the last three years. [See the infographics at the end of this post.]

Oregon bar exam results and admissions are little more haphazard, but support the same generally downward trend. [2014 saw a slight blip upward in applications, but overall passage rates have been dropping – sufficiently so that we became the butt of negative media attention.] Note: Other than pass rate percentages, the bar has not yet posted data for 2015 on its website.]

In 2012 the Oregon State Bar asked lawyers about their future plans over the next five years. Thirty-five percent of lawyers statewide said they planned to retire, leave the profession, or reduce their practice by 2017. [The highest planned retirement/departure rates were on the Oregon coast. See the infographic at the end of this post.]

The Future Looks Good

All of this is a long way of saying I feel good about the future, especially if you plan to open a solo practice. My best advice: give sincere consideration to Southern Oregon, Eastern Oregon, the coast, and smaller towns in the valley.